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Abuse of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs is bringing more patients to the ED, according to a new report from the Drug Abuse Warning Network. The study found that ED visits related to abuse of pharmaceuticals alone, with no other type of drug involved, increased 44% from 2004 to 2006.
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There is a way to recognize the potential for appendicitis before your patient even says a word.
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A patient's chart is unavailable. Verbal orders are not yet written in the patient's chart. The identification bracelet is not yet on your patient. These are three reasons that an ED nurse may fail to comply with one of The Joint Commission's National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs): the requirement for use of at least two patient identifiers.
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A 3-year-old boy with gastroenteritis presents with dry mucous membranes, and his mother tells you he has been sick for several days. This child is at high risk for acidosis, according to a new study.
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Severely dehydrated children are "in imminent danger" due to cardiovascular collapse, increased acidosis, and metabolic abnormalities, all of which can lead to significant morbidity and in some cases mortality, warns P. Jamil Madati, MD, director of emergency medical services at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego.
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Nearly half of older patients use prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications together, says a new study, and one in 25 is at risk for a major potential drug-drug interaction. The researchers also found that 29% of these patients use at least five prescription medications.
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When 103 ED patients, 34 ED physicians, and 44 ED nurses were surveyed, they all agreed on one thing: Treating chronic pain in the ED is a "low priority."
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[Editor's note: This is the second of a two-part series on medical screening examinations (MSEs) performed by emergency nurses. This month, we cover the potential liability risks of nurse-performed MSEs and how to avoid legal problems. Last month, we reported on benefits seen by two EDs that have implemented this practice.]
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Acute gastroenteritis in children is not a benign condition. Worldwide, millions of young children continue to die from this treatable condition every year. Fortunately, in developed countries like the United States, deaths are uncommon, but a substantial proportion of pediatric acute care visits and hospitalizations are directly related to the dehydration caused by this condition.
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Knee and ankle injuries are very common in pediatrics. Sports and recreational activities are frequent sources of injury, hence are sources of typical emergency department (ED) visits. Although sprains and contusions frequently occur, it is critical that the unique aspects of the pediatric skeleton and its associated vulnerability are considered. Imaging and treatment are focused on identification of fractures and associated injuries; correct immobilization and appropriate follow-up, based on the injury, are necessary to maximize the outcome for each injury.
